Puppy Power

Reach for this book when you notice your child is struggling to share control with peers or is frequently described as bossy by friends and teachers. It is a perfect choice for children who have big hearts but tend to dominate social situations with their strong-willed personalities. Third-grader Fran is a natural leader who sometimes forgets that leadership requires cooperation. When she gets a massive, clumsy Newfoundland puppy named Hercules, she realizes that her usual method of barking orders does not work on a dog that weighs more than she does. As Fran attends obedience classes with Hercules, she begins to see the parallel between her dog's behavior and her own interactions at school. This humorous, relatable story helps children aged 7 to 10 understand that patience and empathy are more effective than constant control. It offers a gentle mirror for self-reflection without being preachy, making it an excellent tool for social-emotional growth.